Gerald “Jerry” Mackey

Gerald M. Mackey, a beloved pillar of the Whitney Point community and a revered educator and coach, passed away unexpectedly on June 3, 2024, at the age of 78. He was born on March 29, 1946, in Hoboken, New Jersey, to the late Thomas and Delia Mackey. Jerry was the youngest of five boys and was predeceased by his parents, brothers Thomas, Joseph, Charles, and John Mackey, and sister-in-law Miriam Mackey. He was also predeceased by father- and mother-in-law William and Dorothy Marsden; sister-in-law Judyth Kenney, and brothers-in-law William Marsden Jr. and Robert Marsden; niece Sheila Mackey, and nephews Thomas X. Mackey and William Marsden III.
In his youth, Jerry grew up in the communities of New York and New Jersey. He graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Manhasset, NY, before receiving a full basketball scholarship to attend Seton Hall University in South Orange, NJ, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Education in 1968. A source of immense pride for Jerry was informing his parents that his basketball scholarship meant they did not have to pay for his college education.
On August 2, 1969, Jerry married the love of his life, Kathy J. Marsden, in Sea Cliff, NY. Together, they embarked on a journey filled with love, dedication, and shared values. They settled in Lisle, NY, where Jerry began his illustrious career as an educator and coach.
Jerry’s passion for teaching and mentoring shone brightly throughout his career. He started as a junior high school teacher of Social Studies and English at WPCSD in 1969 and quickly became an integral part of the school community.
A devout parishioner at St. Patrick’s Church in Whitney Point, Jerry was deeply committed to his Catholic faith. He and Kathy were blessed with three children: Jerry, Jason, and Megan, who brought them immeasurable joy, pride, and many grandchildren.
Jerry’s impact extended far beyond the classroom. He coached basketball and cross country, instilling in his athletes the values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. From modified to varsity levels, Jerry’s coaching prowess left an indelible mark on countless young people. He also dedicated his summers to coaching at the Golden Valley Basketball Camp, nurturing the talents of aspiring players.
In addition to his contributions to education and athletics, Jerry served as the Mayor of Lisle from 1986 until his passing. His leadership and dedication to his community were unparalleled, and he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of its residents.
In 1988, Jerry added the role of Athletic Director to his teaching, where he served with distinction until his retirement from Whitney Point in 2002. His leadership and dedication were recognized with numerous accolades, including an award from NYSPHSAA for his outstanding contributions to the Susquehanna Association and STAC. He was also honored with a Certificate of Appreciation for his service as President of Chapter IV of the NYS Athletic Administrators Association.
Jerry’s enduring legacy also was cemented with his induction into the Whitney Point Hall of Fame inaugural class in 2011 and the Section IV Hall of Fame in 2020. His passion for athletics, coupled with his unwavering commitment to his community, will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In addition to his community contributions, Dad/Poppy found immense joy in traveling far and wide to support and cheer on his children and grandchildren in their various endeavors. Always adorned in his signature wind suit, he could be spotted roaming the sidelines with his favorite snack in hand. Fondly remembered for stashing cookies under the car seat, he had a knack for turning ordinary outings into spontaneous sports spectacles. His energy and love for family and sports brought endless laughter and joy to those around him and his phrase “I was thinking…” struck fear in their hearts. At the time of his passing, the family had been planning a 55th Anniversary reunion that Dad/Poppy would have enjoyed for about 30 minutes. During which he would have come up with excuses to escape and read his NY Post and eat his ‘AARP donut’. Though he may have been a master of promising Mom a date night which ultimately ended up with a slice of pizza and a soda at a random sporting event, his legacy of love and laughter will always be cherished. Though this chapter has closed, the memories created and the love shared will forever linger in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to witness these precious moments.
Jerry is survived by his devoted wife of almost 55 years, Kathy Mackey, his children Jerry (Courtney), Jason (Megan J.), and Megan (Chrissy) Mackey. Grandchildren: Teagan, Aidan, Carter and Peyton (Jerry/Courtney), William and Ryan (Jason/Megan J), Hannah and Katie Kingsley, Connor, Riley and Molly Mackey (Megan/Chrissy). Jerry is also survived by sisters-in-law Kitty, Marion, and Connie Mackey, Jeanne Marsden, brother-in-law Greg Kenney and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
The family has found comfort in stories shared by those impacted by Jerry/Dad/Poppy. We encourage people to continue to share those memories with the family either publicly or privately.
Jerry wished to be cremated and a celebration of his life will be held at St. Patrick’s Church in Whitney Point. Calling hours will be held on Thursday June 6th from 2-4pm and 7-9pm with a Catholic Mass at 11am Friday June 7th.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made (in memory of Jerry Mackey) to: Whitney Point Ecumenical Food Pantry, PO Box 711, Whitney Point, NY 13862 and/or Whitney Point Youth Club, PO Box 852, Whitney Point, NY 13862
Jerry’s kindness, wisdom, and unwavering spirit will be dearly missed but forever cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace.